Ballard announced on Tuesday the signings of transfers Curvonte McGown and Samer Jassar to play basketball in 2010-11 for the Wildcats.

"I am very excited about the two transfers we are bringing in for the year," Ballard said. "I believe both will address some immediate needs that we had coming into this season. I got a chance to recruit these guys last spring/summer. They are individuals who come from solid backgrounds and they will be good representatives of Baker University.”

McGown, a 6-foot-2-inch guard from Las Vegas, Nev., played at Scottsdale (Ariz.) Community College the past two years.

"Curvonte will address our needs in the backcourt," Ballard said. "I felt after we lost Brock Entner to graduation we needed to find a solid point guard. I believe Curvonte will be a great floor leader for us with his quickness and ability to create shots for teammates."

Jassar, a native of Jatt, Israel, will bring some international flavor to the floor.

At 6-8, Jassar could prove to be a big factor with the length and athleticism he will provide the Wildcats at the power forward/center position. Jassar spent last season at Barton County Community College and his previous two seasons at Lee Academy Prep School in Lee, Maine.

"He has the ability to score around the rim and can knock down outside shots, which will stretch the defense," Ballard said of Jassar. "With his background he has played in a number of different competitive environments. I believe those experiences will help him make a smooth transition to Baker."

Look for the 2010-11 Wildcats basketball schedule to be finished in the coming weeks and posted on www.bakerwildcats.com